Google Drive's Arm64 Version to Boost Windows on Arm Experience
Google is set to enhance the user experience for Windows on Arm with the upcoming launch of an Arm64 version of Google Drive later this year. This development is particularly significant for users of Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs, which are powered by Qualcomm’s X series processors. The announcement came from Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon during the company’s recent IFA event, where he also highlighted the immediate availability of popular VPN services, NordVPN and ExpressVPN, on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon laptops.
Despite the promising advancements, the current landscape for Copilot+ PCs has faced challenges. The Qualcomm X series processors have been criticized for their limited support for various software applications designed for Windows on Arm, a point that was underscored during Intel’s Lunar Lake presentation. Intel executives took the opportunity to compare their latest AI chips with Qualcomm’s offerings, emphasizing the limitations that come with the latter’s architecture.
The absence of essential applications like Google Drive and VPN services on recent Copilot+ PCs has been attributed to the need for updates to ensure compatibility with Windows on Arm. Currently, Google restricts access to Drive on the latest Qualcomm-powered devices, which has left users seeking alternatives. However, it is worth noting that Google had previously released an Arm64 version of Chrome for Windows ahead of the Copilot+ launch in June, signaling a commitment to improving the ecosystem.
In addition to application compatibility, gamers have reported issues with popular titles such as “League of Legends” and “Fortnite.” These games, designed for Intel’s x86 architecture, require a software layer to translate instructions for Qualcomm’s Arm-based systems, adding another layer of complexity for users.
Qualcomm Launches 8-Core Snapdragon X Plus Chips
In a bid to make Windows on Arm laptops more accessible, Qualcomm has recently introduced its new eight-core Snapdragon X Plus chip. This launch comes just over two months after the debut of the latest Qualcomm-powered laptops, with CEO Amon stating that these new chips will contribute to making Copilot+ PCs more affordable.
Looking ahead, Amon hinted at the exciting potential for Snapdragon chips in desktop PCs, with further details expected to emerge during Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon summit in October. This could mark a significant shift in the landscape of personal computing, as Qualcomm explores new avenues for its technology beyond laptops.
